The launch of the Msinga Campus in South Africa is a landmark event in the expansion of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. The government’s investment of over R2.880 billion in expanding the TVET sector includes the construction of thirteen new campuses and upgrading three existing ones. The Msinga Campus offers quality education and vocational training to address the skills requirements of the local community and aligns with the government’s broader agenda to address the skills mismatch and invest in high demand occupations.
The Franschhoek Pass in South Africa’s Western Cape is an essential link for local communities and trade, but ongoing rehabilitation work means it will be closed daily from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays from November 28 to December 15, 2023. Light motor vehicles will still have access, but vehicles over five tons are not allowed. The closure is necessary for safety and sustainability, but motorists are urged to use alternative routes and the completion date for repairs is uncertain.
The Cleaning and Greening InHouse District Model Programme is set to create 800 new jobs across five municipalities in South Africa’s Free State, while also tackling environmental concerns. The initiative is an expansion of the Good Green Deeds programme, which has already created 20,000 employment opportunities and contributed to a cleaner and safer environment. The launch of this programme signifies a transformative journey for the region, positively impacting both the environment and the livelihoods of many residents.
Efforts are being made to protect marine mammals in Cape Town from the illegal and inhumane activity of feeding seals. The City of Cape Town and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment have taken proactive measures to ensure the cessation of this mistreatment, but persistent challenges remain. The protection and assurance of seal welfare is a collective responsibility that requires the commitment of the public, tour operators, and guides to become protectors of marine wildlife.
In 2023, South Africa’s electricity supplier, Eskom, implemented Stage 6 load shedding to prevent a complete power system failure during peak demand. The decision was accompanied by a livestreamed briefing, which aimed to provide transparency and responsibility, acknowledging the challenges to the people and striving to provide a better understanding of the intricacies that govern their power supply. The briefing served as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our lives and the systems we depend on, the demandsupply equilibrium, and the nation’s strive towards a sustainable future.
Black Friday shopping can pose risks to consumer wellbeing, with counterfeit and outofdate food items on the market. To ensure quality and safety, consumers should be vigilant of unusual color, texture, scent, and packaging, as well as inconsistencies in stated ingredients, and look for clearly displayed manufacturing and expiry dates. Reporting suspicious vendors is also crucial, and South African law enforcement is authorized to investigate and act under the Foodstuffs Act as Inspectors. Ultimately, safety and quality should be prioritized over savings during Black Friday shopping.
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government is launching the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign in Lusikisiki, with initiatives including trauma counselling, psychosocial support services, and the appointment of additional social workers. Collaborative efforts between the government and civil society have formed GBV Rapid Response Teams and the Court Watch Brief initiative, resulting in convictions in multiple rape cases. The campaign aims to educate and empower communities to establish GBVfree communities and safeguard women and children’s rights, and serves as a beacon of hope for a world devoid of GBV and where justice prevails.
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Infrastructure Development & Property Management Portfolio Committee visited LG Holele Secondary School in GaRankuwa to evaluate the effective utilization of funds reserved for the school’s construction. The committee aimed to establish superior educational environments to facilitate the thriving of Gauteng’s children. Their ongoing series of supervisory visits aims to scrutinize numerous educational infrastructure development projects and expedite the provision of highquality education facilities across the province. The committee’s commitment to promoting educational growth and development in the province is a testament to their determination.
The Refinery Interchange Bridge in Western Cape will be temporarily closed from November 2427, 2023, due to the fifth phase of roadworks. Alternate routes and contingency plans have been established to minimize interruption during the closure, and the Department of Infrastructure is available for any inquiries. The closure will have a significant impact on the city’s complex commuting network, but measures have been taken to ensure a smooth transition.
Mr. Thela, a DJ and producer from Cape Town, has risen to fame in the South African music scene. His successful UK tour marked a significant milestone in his solo career, and his latest album ‘Tronics Land Series 2′ showcases his ability to transcend genre limitations. Despite challenges in fulfilling fans’ high expectations, Mr. Thela’s dedication and natural ability to create profound connections through his music have propelled him to success and shaped the future of South African music.
Cape Town experienced a widespread power outage caused by theft and vandalism of Eskom’s infrastructure, resulting in delays in restoration efforts. The city’s allocation of electricity is governed by national legislation, making it challenging to solve the issue. The blackout originated from unplanned faults, leaving residents without power for over 80 hours and prompting local protests. Despite the power cut, life in Cape Town continues to thrive, with extraordinary car deals and a dynamic spirit prevalent.
The Sex Workers Education and Advocacy Taskforce hosted the firstever summit for the decriminalisation of sex work in South Africa, bringing together sex workers and state authorities to discuss the highly charged topic. The aim is to readvance the bill for the decriminalisation of sex work to Parliament by March 2024, eliminating criminal charges against sex workers, legalising the purchase and sale of sex, and revoking all laws that criminalise sex work. The summit’s focal point was campaigns advocating for the rights of sex workers, including those addressing HIV prevention services and dismantling structural barriers.
A man named Johannes Lewis was attacked and killed by four pit bulls during his morning walk in Lutzville. The incident has sparked a debate about pet owners’ responsibilities and accountability, as well as the temperament of pit bulls. An investigation has been launched, and a culpable homicide case has been initiated, while the community mourns the loss of a beloved member.
South African athletes’ legal challenges have had a ripple effect on society, showcasing moral dilemmas and the complicated aftermath of fame. Examples include Thembinkosi Lorch’s assault conviction, which sparked a debate about society’s tendency to defend celebrities, and Senzo Meyiwa’s unsolved murder case. Some athletes, such as Caster Semenya, have fought for their rights to compete, while others, like Oscar Pistorius, have faced tragic consequences and legal intricacies. These cases reflect the challenges of balancing morality, celebrity culture, and justice in South African sports and society.
The South African GuideDogs Association for the Blind is asking for donations to help train their guide dogsintraining. They have created a wish list of crucial items needed for the dogs’ health and training. By donating, you will receive a certificate of thanks and make a meaningful contribution towards the service of visually impaired individuals. The association has also adapted “The Twelve Days of Christmas” into a music video to draw attention to their needs and spread holiday cheer. Let’s harness the holiday spirit and make a difference one donation at a time.
Jamie Foxx has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a rooftop bar in New York in 2015. The woman alleges that Foxx groped her breasts and digitally penetrated her, leading to physical harm and emotional distress. She has started legal action against Foxx for both compensatory and punitive damages. The incident serves as a reminder of the existence of sexual assault and the need for a culture of respect and consent.